Glenavon Football Club produced a strong away performance to defeat rivals Portadown 4-2 in the Euro Electrix Mid Ulster Cup First Round. The victory at Shamrock Park on Tuesday 1st September 2026 came after Glenavon's understrength side fell behind twice but fought back with purpose.
According to the match report from Glenavon Football Club, the hosts struck first just before half-time. James Teelan weaved past two defenders and shot past goalkeeper Byrne to give Portadown the lead. Glenavon's response was swift after the break. Niall Quinn equalised in the 51st minute, heading home from a back-post flick by Peter Maguire following a Luke McGerrigan corner.
Portadown regained the lead six minutes later. Michael Hewitt headed in from a Ben Kennedy free-kick, awarded after a challenge on Conor Falls. Glenavon manager Michael O'Connor then made a decisive quadruple substitution with twenty minutes remaining, introducing Paddy Burns, Peter Campbell, Ethan Devine, and Jude Johnson.
How did Glenavon turn the game around?
The changes altered the momentum. Ethan Devine won a penalty after being brought down on the edge of the six-yard area and converted it himself in the 74th minute. Jude Johnson then put Glenavon ahead for the first time with a 15-yard strike six minutes later, following a clever hook-back from Peter Campbell. Alex Watson sealed the 4-2 win in the 88th minute, playing a one-two with Campbell before bursting past two defenders and scoring from 19 yards.
Portadown, managed by David Jeffrey, had chances to level at 3-2. Liam Jessop headed over from a corner, but Glenavon's defence held firm. The visitors' performance was characterised by accurate passing, and they thoroughly deserved the success. This cup progress adds to a positive start to the season, with Glenavon currently sitting third in the Championship table with 10 points from five games.
What is Glenavon's current league form?
The team's form reads three wins, one draw, and one loss. They have scored 14 goals and conceded 8, giving them a healthy +6 goal difference. The win at Shamrock Park keeps them in touch at the top, just three points behind league leaders Newington Youth. Fans can track the team's progress in the standings throughout the campaign.
What comes next for Glenavon FC?
Attention now turns to a key league fixture. Glenavon's next match is a home game against table-toppers Newington Youth on Saturday, 19th September 2026. This clash represents a direct opportunity to close the gap at the summit. The full schedule of upcoming games is available on the club's fixtures page. Manager Michael O'Connor will hope the confidence from this cup win translates into another strong performance in front of their own supporters.
